55 Years of Whitewater
Celebrating Madawaska Kanu Centre’s Legendary 5-Day Program
For 55 years, paddlers have arrived at the banks of Ontario’s Madawaska River looking for the same thing: more time on the water. As the 2026 season comes to a close, the Madawaska Kanu Centre is celebrating the 55th anniversary of its flagship 5-Day Whitewater Program, a course that has introduced thousands of kayakers and canoeists to the sport while helping experienced paddlers reach the next level.
Course Overview
Running Monday through Friday from early May until the end of August, the 5-Day Program remains MKC’s most popular course. Designed for individuals, families, groups of friends, and paddling clubs, it welcomes everyone from complete beginners to experienced paddlers looking to refine their skills.
« The perfect amount of time to immerse yourself in the world of whitewater. »
MKC’s river instructors are experienced outdoors leaders with a passion for teaching whitewater paddling and sharing their love of the river with you. Combine this with MKC’s hospitality, and you have an active vacation like none other.
Participants can choose either kayak or canoe instruction and are first placed into small groups based on experience level. Whether it’s a first introduction to moving water or an opportunity to build advanced skills, the goal of the camp is the same: help every paddler progress at their own pace.
A typical week combines full days on the river with video analysis, rescue instruction, evening sessions, and a final river trip where participants put their new skills into practice.
Off the water, paddlers enjoy the full MKC experience, including accommodation options ranging from campsites to lodge rooms and cabanas, hearty meals, a vibrant riverside community, and even optional massages!
The setting is a big part of the appeal. Located near Barry’s Bay, Ontario, the Madawaska Kanu Center sits beside the Middle Madawaska River. It’s a pretty special place—both geographically and culturally. The river itself is warm, pool-drop, and very forgiving, which makes it an ideal learning environment. It’s dynamic enough to challenge people as they progress, yet friendly enough for beginners to build confidence without feeling overwhelmed.
« Amazing, organized and joyful. You can sense the passion here as soon as you pull up. Everyone loves what they do and it’s a very welcoming feeling. »
As MKC celebrates 55 years of its iconic 5-Day Whitewater Program, there is still one final course left this season: August 31st to September 4th.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. Paddlers can also join the season’s final Weekend Kayak & Canoe Courses on August 29th-30th and September 12th-13th, or unwind at the Yoga Retreat on September 12th-13th.
Check out their website for more details.
And on September 3rd, MKC’s annual Mid Mad Fest brings the paddling community together for a day on the river. Rain or shine, paddlers of all abilities are welcome to spend the day with MKC on the Middle Madawaska. Come for the paddling, stay for the food, music, and good company, and help give the river a proper end-of-season celebration.
Already thinking about next year?
The 2027 season kicks off on May 1st, with Early Bird bookings opening in November 2026.
